Locally, through the West Yorkshire Careers Hub, this two-year project focused on supporting 180 female pupils receiving Free School Meals (FSM). These pupils had low confidence and self-efficacy.
The project targeted Year 10 students, helping them build skills, gain experiences and develop confidence. It aimed to assist them in making decisions after Year 11 about future opportunities.
During the project, participants improved their employability skills, learned the value of teamwork, met various employers and industry experts and worked on own creative projects based on real-word challenges.
An end-of-project survey showed significant improvement in self-confidence and belief among pupils. They felt the project helped them express their thoughts about the future and consider potential careers. Many reported progress in communication and public speaking skills.
It was really fun, and I had a good time in every session with [facilitators] who are both amazing role models for the sessions. They really helped me to value myself and look forward to what’s next for me.
Batley Girls High School pupil, ETF project
Participants connected with regional employers, including, Leeds Bradford Airport, ARUP and the energy company Equans. Company visits were impactful, offering insights into different professions and bridging the gap between school and real-life careers.
The day [at Leeds Bradford Airport] began with an introductory welcome from the CEO of the airport Vincent Hodder. Vincent spoke to the girls about why diversity was so important in the airport. This was particularly powerful with every one of the young people being from a minority ethnic group. He talked about there not being enough females in the industry and the kind of people they would like to have working there. He talked about the ethos and the culture - how the business was like a big family…. It was really inspiring!
Teacher, Bishop Young Church of England Academy
Data collected indicated that the project supported participants in progressing to advanced level options after school. However, there was a drop in those moving to A Level study from their initial plans. Feedback from the delivery team and teachers suggested this shift was due to increased awareness of diverse career paths during the programme.
Of the 120 participants, only two did not secure a post-16 destination.
Additionally, 95% of participants expressed satisfaction with their chosen post-16 options.
The project also engaged parents through newsletters and webinars, receiving very positive feedback.
My daughter has really enjoyed the project and I’ve noticed a big difference in her confidence and self-worth. My daughter still doesn’t know what she wants to do as a career, but she is not worried about not knowing. She has a more positive outlook, and things don’t seem to be affecting her as much, she has better coping mechanisms than she did before.
Parent, ETF project
School staff involved in the ETF project also provided encouraging responses.
The content about different careers and what it takes to get there has been really eye-opening for the girls. They’ve learnt that some more applied qualifications are more helpful and appropriate to help get them to where they want to be career-wise.
Teacher, ETF project
[Extracts taken from 'Effective Transitions Fund and Targeted Transitions Fund Evaluation and Impact' report, Dr D Wilkinson, June 2024]
